▶ Tap to play (60 seconds)
Quick verdict
Yes, Circe by Madeline Miller is well worth listening to: it is a lyrical, character-driven Greek mythology fantasy that works beautifully as an audiobook. It reimagines a minor figure from the myths as a fully human, stubborn and sharp-witted heroine. If you want a story that feels ancient and intimate at once, start here.
- Circe is a myth retelling built around one voice, which makes it a natural fit for audio.
- Perdita Weeks gives the narration a calm, wry warmth that carries the book’s long timespan.
- It stands alone, so newcomers to Greek mythology can begin without any homework.
What it’s about
Circe is a 2018 novel that retells the story of the witch of Aiaia from her own point of view. She is born a minor goddess, the daughter of the sun god Helios, and she is overlooked, mocked and underestimated by her radiant family. Her discovery that herbs and spells can shape the world, and even threaten the gods, gets her banished to a remote island.
What follows is a slow, absorbing story of self-invention. Over centuries of solitude, Circe hones her craft, tames wild animals and receives visitors from the great legends. Each one tests her patience, her compassion and her temper. Miller keeps the focus on what it costs to live among immortals when you are not the strongest one in the room.
Why it works as an audiobook
Circe suits audio because it is told in first person, in a reflective voice that sounds like someone recounting her life beside a fire. Perdita Weeks understands that tone. She keeps the pacing unhurried, lets the sarcasm land softly, and gives the gods enough distinct colour that you never lose track of who is speaking.
The prose also does half the work for you. Miller’s descriptions of sea, stone, herbs and firelight are rich without being overwrought, so long listening sessions feel immersive rather than heavy. It is an ideal audiobook for commutes, chores and late-night walks.
One honest caveat: the first third moves at a deliberate pace. If you need constant action, give it a few chapters. The payoff is a story that grows more confident and more emotional as it goes.
Who should read it
Circe is best for listeners who love mythology, witches, morally complicated women and beautifully written fantasy. It is also a great pick if you enjoyed the mythic retellings that have taken over BookTok, and want the one that many readers treat as the benchmark.
Skip it if you want fast plotting or a light, comic take on the gods. This is a thoughtful, sometimes painful story about loneliness, power and finding your own strength.
Similar books
These three audiobooks share Circe’s mix of myth, feeling and female-centred storytelling:
- The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller: a tender, devastating love story set against the Trojan War.
- Ariadne by Jennifer Saint: the Cretan princess of the Minotaur legend takes charge of her own tale.
- A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes: the women of the Trojan War, from queens to captives, finally get to speak.
FAQ
Do I need to know Greek mythology before listening to Circe? No. Madeline Miller introduces every god, monster and hero through Circe’s own eyes, so newcomers can follow easily. Fans of the myths will just spot more familiar names.
Who narrates the Circe audiobook? The Circe audiobook is read by Perdita Weeks, whose measured, expressive performance suits the book’s first-person voice.
Is Circe a standalone novel? Yes. Circe is a self-contained novel, so you can start it without reading any other Madeline Miller book first.
More audiobook reviews
Browse all audiobook reviews · What to watch on Prime Video · Start a 30-day Audible trial
Listen to Circe free on Audible →Audible Standard · 30 days free · yours to keep, even if you cancel
#ad · As an Amazon Associate, Elite Books earns from qualifying purchases and sign-ups.
